Home / Health / Methanol Poisoning Emerges as Alarming Public Health Crisis in UK
Methanol Poisoning Emerges as Alarming Public Health Crisis in UK
13 Nov
Summary
- UK data suggests methanol poisoning deaths may be underreported
- FCDO warns of increased cases in 8 countries, including Mexico
- Symptoms can mimic severe hangover, but lead to blindness or death
According to a recent report, the UK is facing a concerning public health crisis as methanol poisoning cases appear to be on the rise, with official data suggesting the problem may be significantly underreported. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has extended warnings to eight additional countries, including popular British holiday destination Mexico, due to an "increase in cases of death and serious illnesses caused by alcoholic beverages contaminated with methanol".
Medical experts are urging the public to be vigilant, as the initial symptoms of methanol poisoning can closely resemble a severe hangover, potentially leading many Brits to brush off the warning signs. However, if left untreated, methanol poisoning can rapidly progress, causing severe damage to the optic nerve, brain, kidneys, and other vital organs, potentially resulting in blindness, coma, respiratory failure, and even death.
Professor M.D Ismail Cinel, a medical expert from Acibadem, emphasizes the critical importance of seeking immediate medical attention if one suspects they may have consumed a contaminated alcoholic beverage, particularly while traveling abroad. He cautions that the symptoms may not manifest until 12-24 hours after consumption, by which point the condition can deteriorate very quickly.
